Boston Pedestrian and Bicycle Accident Lawyers

Traffic accidents that involve a person on foot or bike have higher rates of severe injuries and fatalities than crashes involving only motor vehicles. In 2016, 15 of the 22 people killed in Boston traffic crashes were pedestrians, according to a report on the city’s Vision Zero initiative to reduce traffic deaths.

Pedestrian accidents often leave injury victims facing overwhelming medical expenses, extended time away from work, and the need for long-term care. If you were hit by a motor vehicle while walking, jogging or riding a bike, the Boston attorneys at Jason Stone Injury Lawyers are here to fight for the financial security you need to recover.

Call us at 800-577-5188 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation.

Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Victims

Pedestrians and bicyclists lack the obvious protections of those in motor vehicles, and in the event of a collision those on foot or bike are more likely to sustain catastrophic injuries including spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

Traffic accidents that involve a person on foot or on bicycle result in higher rates of severe injuries and deaths.

Initial insurance company settlement offers are rarely enough to cover immediate medical costs, let alone any necessary ongoing care. Our Boston personal injury lawyers understand the life-altering effects of severe injuries and their associated expenses, and we work hard to get the money injury victims need to cope with:

Past and future medical treatment

Past and future wages

Pain and suffering

Property damage

If you were struck by a vehicle that fled the scene, you may be entitled to damages through your own insurance policy; our lawyers are here to help you understand your options and get the care you need. In the event that a loved one was killed in a pedestrian or bicycle accident, our attorneys may be able to help surviving family members pursue compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit.

Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

Since 2009, the number of people killed while walking in the U.S. has increased each year. Pedestrian accidents have also increased in Boston. In 2015, nine of the 23 people killed in traffic accidents were pedestrians; in 2016, 15 of the 22 crash fatalities were pedestrians.

Many experts believe technology is a primary contributing factor. Crashes related to distracted driving have likewise increased, although there is no national standard for how states record and report details about potential distracted driving accidents.

Most pedestrian accidents occur outside of crosswalks, although many pedestrians and cyclists are still injured at marked intersections.

Alcohol is also a common factor in pedestrian accidents. The Governor’s Highway Safety Association reported that alcohol was a factor in approximately half of pedestrian accident fatalities in 2013.

The locations of these accidents are also significant. Most pedestrian accidents occur outside the relative safe zones of crosswalks, although many pedestrians are still hurt or killed at marked intersections each year.

Boston’s Vision Zero initiative, which aims to reduce serious and fatal crashes for all who share the road, includes steps to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists in particular. In 2017, for example, Boston reduced the city’s default speed from 30 miles per hour to 25. Boston also plans to increase radar signs, improve intersection safety, and reduce speeds in priority corridors such as Codman Square and Massachusetts Avenue near Back Bay and South End. The city is also working to reduce dangerous behaviors like texting while driving.

Pedestrian Accident FAQ

What are some common types of pedestrian accidents? Some of the most common types of pedestrian accidents include:

Crosswalk Accidents Distracted drivers may hit pedestrians who are using crosswalks, as they may not see them in time to stop or slow down.

Turning Accidents Drivers who make quick turns without checking the road may strike pedestrians.

Backing up Accidents Many vehicles don’t make much noise when reversing. Drivers who don’t check their mirrors before backing up can hit pedestrians who don’t hear their vehicles.

At Jason Stone Injury Lawyers, we’re familiar with the causes of pedestrian accidents, and we know what it takes to get our clients the money they need for medical bills, lost wages, and to feel whole again. Dial (800) 577-5188 or fill out a free online form to get in touch with our law firm today.

Who is at fault in my accident? The person considered at fault for the accident is usually the person who is also considered negligent, or careless. This is often the vehicle driver, as he or she may have hit you because he or she was driving while distracted, speeding, or driving recklessly. However, sometimes both the driver and the pedestrian can be considered negligent. In these cases, it’s important that an attorney reviews the facts of your accident to determine who is considered more at fault in causing the accident.

What if my accident was a hit-and-run? If the driver who hit you fled the scene of the accident, it’s considered a hit-and-run. The driver may receive criminal charges and an arrest warrant if they can be located. If they can’t be found, you have no one to file a claim against for your medical bills and lost wages. If you or a household member have an auto insurance policy, you may be able to file an uninsured motorist claim. Our attorneys can help you file a claim to get money to compensate you for your accident-related injuries and damages.

What compensation can I get from my pedestrian accident? As a pedestrian accident victim, you may be eligible to file a claim for several types of damages, including:

Medical Bills Pedestrian accidents can cause serious injuries that put you in the hospital for a long period of time. Extended hospital stays can be expensive, and insurance may not cover all the costs.

Lost Wages Your injuries may prevent you from working for days, weeks, or even months at a time. That means lost paychecks. Your claim can help you get the money you should have earned while you were too hurt to work.

Physical and Emotional Suffering Getting hit by a car is a traumatic experience. Not only are you in physical pain, but you may also develop anxiety and psychological problems because of the accident. Filing a claim can help you get money for your accident-related suffering.

Aggressive Representation for Injury Victims in Boston, Massachusetts

If you or a loved one was struck and injured by a careless driver, one of the most important steps you can take is to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer. Working with a knowledgeable attorney can improve your chances to achieve a fair financial settlement and relieve some of the stress you feel so you can focus on getting better and moving forward with your life.

The attorneys at Jason Stone Injury Lawyers are dedicated to your recovery and peace of mind. That’s why we offer the Stone Cold Guarantee®, which includes our promise that we don’t get paid until you get paid.

To learn how we can help you, please call us at 800-577-5188 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. We can meet you at your home or hospital room, or arrange a video conference via Skype, FaceTime or Google Hangouts.